Long Island Travel Guide: Beaches, Caves & Authentic Bahamian Culture

🌴 Welcome to Long Island: The Hidden Gem of The Bahamas

If you’re searching for a Bahamian island that offers breathtaking natural beauty, dramatic landscapes, and a true escape from the crowds, Long Island is your perfect destination. Stretching over 80 miles, this island blends unspoiled beaches, turquoise waters, and rugged cliffs with warm, welcoming local culture. It’s a haven for adventurers, nature lovers, and travelers looking for an authentic Caribbean experience.
 

Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear blue holes, exploring historic ruins, or simply relaxing on white sandy beaches, Long Island promises unforgettable memories. Let’s dive into what makes this island a must-visit in The Bahamas.

📍 Where is Long Island?

Country: The Bahamas

Region: Out Islands

Capital: Clarence Town

Size: Approximately 80 miles long and 1-4 miles wide

Access: Flights to Deadman’s Cay Airport or Arthur’s Town Airport; ferry from Nassau (seasonal and limited)

✈️ How to Get to Long Island

Long Island is more remote than some other Bahamian islands, but easily accessible:

By Air: Regular flights from Nassau to Deadman’s Cay (LGI) and Arthur’s Town (ATC) via Bahamasair or private charters.

By Sea: Occasional ferry service from Nassau, but this is less common and weather-dependent.

By Boat: Many yachts and private boats visit Long Island, especially for the excellent anchorage spots.

🏝️ Why Visit Long Island?

1. Dean’s Blue Hole – The Deepest Blue Hole in the World

One of Long Island’s most famous natural wonders, Dean’s Blue Hole is a massive underwater sinkhole plunging over 600 feet (202 meters) deep. It’s a world-renowned spot for freediving, snorkeling, and photography.

The crystal-clear, deep blue water surrounded by white cliffs creates a surreal and mesmerizing sight.

Free divers come here to set records and challenge their limits, while casual visitors enjoy safe swimming in calm waters.

Don’t miss the nearby Blue Hole National Park, which offers trails and picnic spots.

2. Beautiful and Secluded Beaches

Long Island boasts some of the Bahamas’ most beautiful, quiet beaches:

Cape Santa Maria Beach: Often voted one of the world’s top beaches, with pristine white sand and calm, turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Gallows Point Beach: Perfect for relaxing and watching stunning sunsets.

Salt Pond Beach: Known for its soft sand and peaceful atmosphere.

These beaches are less crowded than other islands, perfect for tranquility seekers.

3. Dramatic Cliffs and Natural Scenery

The island’s western shore features rugged limestone cliffs rising dramatically above the sea, creating breathtaking viewpoints:

French Leave Beach cliffs offer panoramic ocean views and excellent hiking opportunities.

The contrast of cliffs with turquoise waters and sandy coves is a photographer’s dream.

Nature trails allow visitors to explore the island’s diverse flora and fauna.

4. Historic Sites and Local Culture

Long Island has a rich history and authentic Bahamian communities:

Visit Clarence Town, the island’s capital, for local shops, eateries, and cultural events.

Explore Pineapple Fields and old plantation ruins that tell stories of the island’s colonial past.

Engage with friendly locals and experience Bahamian hospitality firsthand.

5. Water Activities and Adventure

The island offers an array of activities for adventure seekers:

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Coral reefs teem with tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful marine life.

Fishing: Popular for deep-sea fishing with chances to catch mahi-mahi, snapper, and grouper.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore calm bays and mangroves.

Boating: Charter boats for island-hopping and exploring nearby cays.

Hiking: Trails with views of beaches, cliffs, and inland forest.

🧳 What to Bring and Travel Tips

Sun Protection: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

Comfortable Footwear: For hiking and exploring rocky areas.

Snorkeling Gear: Bring your own or rent locally to enjoy the reefs.

Cash: Many small businesses prefer cash; US dollars widely accepted.

Camera: For capturing stunning landscapes and underwater life.

Respect Local Culture: Be polite, support local businesses, and protect the environment.

🍽️ Where to Eat on Long Island

Long Island’s dining scene features fresh seafood and traditional Bahamian dishes:

Bahamian Fish Stew and Conch Fritters are must-try local specialties.

Small restaurants and beach shacks serve grilled fish, lobster, and fresh salads.

Try homemade tropical fruit juices and Bahamian desserts like guava duff.

Friendly locals often recommend hidden gems for authentic meals.

🏡 Where to Stay on Long Island

Long Island offers a range of accommodations, from rustic guesthouses to luxury resorts:

Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort: Upscale beachfront resort with amenities and fine dining.

Small Guesthouses and Villas: Offering cozy stays with local charm and personalized service.

Eco-Lodges: For nature lovers seeking sustainable tourism options.

Booking ahead is advised during high season (December-April).

📸 Best Photo Spots on Long Island

Dean’s Blue Hole: Capture the stunning deep blue waters against white cliffs.

Cape Santa Maria Beach: Iconic turquoise waters and powdery sands.

Sunsets from Gallows Point: Vibrant skies over calm seas.

Historic ruins and local markets: Capture the island’s culture and history.

🕒 Best Time to Visit Long Island

High Season: December to April with pleasant weather and low humidity

Low Season: May to November; warmer with occasional rain showers

Hurricane Season: June to November — check weather and travel advisories

🌍 Responsible Travel and Safety

Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems.

Follow guidelines for wildlife encounters and coral reef conservation.

Respect local communities and culture.

Swim in safe designated areas and heed local advice.

Keep hydrated and stay sun-safe.

🧭 Sample 3-Day Itinerary for Long Island

Day 1:

Arrive at Deadman’s Cay Airport

Visit Dean’s Blue Hole for swimming and snorkeling

Explore Clarence Town and try local cuisine

Day 2:

Relax at Cape Santa Maria Beach

Afternoon hike along French Leave Beach cliffs

Sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant

Day 3:

Snorkeling or diving tour at nearby coral reefs

Visit historic ruins and pineapple fields

Depart or continue to neighboring islands

✨ Final Words from Your Tour Guide

Long Island in the Bahamas is a spectacular blend of raw natural beauty, fascinating history, and warm local culture. It’s the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the real Bahamas beyond the usual tourist spots.

From the awe-inspiring Dean’s Blue Hole to idyllic beaches and rugged cliffs, Long Island invites you to unwind, explore, and create lasting memories in a peaceful tropical paradise.

🧭 TL;DR Summary

Location: Southern Bahamas, Out Islands

Highlights: Dean’s Blue Hole, Cape Santa Maria Beach, cliffs, local culture

Activities: Snorkeling, diving, hiking, fishing, relaxing

Access: Flights from Nassau or private boat

Ideal for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, authentic cultural experiences